Large police response in Okotoks the result of a hoax

A large police presence in a north Okotoks neigbourhood yesterday afternoon was the result of a hoax. 

Okotoks RCMP responded to a residence on Crystal Green Way at about 4 p.m. on Aug. 15 for what police described as a firearms complaint, but later determined was a swatting incident. 

“It was an incident of swatting, where somebody makes a fake complaint about something happening in the residence,” RCMP public information officer Cpl. Troy Savinkoff said. 

Due to the nature of the complaint, a large number of officers responded, Savinkoff said. 

“RCMP were approached by occupants of the residence who were ultimately able to confirm that no offence actually took place,” he said. 

During the incident, at least 10 police vehicles from Okotoks and other RCMP detachments could be seen in the area, along with EMS and Okotoks Fire and Rescue vehicles. 

Northbound 32 Street was closed at Milligan Drive and access to Crystal Green Way was blocked as police responded, but emergency vehicles abruptly began leaving the area at approximately 4:30 p.m. 

A public mischief investigation into the incident is underway but no charges have been laid at this time. 

Savinkoff did not say where the call originated. 

“We're currently conducting an investigation,” he said. "At the conclusion of that investigation, we might be able to provide some additional information."